Amidst the severe energy crisis gripping Cuba, a priest from Santiago captured the sentiment of many Cubans with a mix of irony and resignation: "A dim Christmas awaits us." Leandro NaunHung took to Facebook to share a video of a makeshift wood stove crafted from scrap metal, a testament to the resourcefulness many Cubans are forced to adopt as conditions worsen.
"We just have to survive and hope for the day we can eat at McDonald's," the priest commented while preparing a meal. His words, laced with irony, highlight not only the harshness of the current situation but also the hope many hold for a more prosperous life under a different political system.
The priest didn't just share his own struggles; he pointed out the widespread hardships facing most households on the island. "Thank God we have food. Do you know how many people are in blackout, without gas, without anything to cook and nothing to cook?" he questioned. This situation underscores the impact of frequent blackouts, including the third massive outage in less than two months, severely disrupting the daily lives of Cubans.
Amid jokes about "grated parmesan" and "New Year's Eve dinners," the priest’s message reveals a grim reality: life in Cuba has become a relentless struggle for survival. "Everything is falling apart," he noted while looking at a damaged fence, symbolizing the deepening crisis in Cuba over recent months.
His message, infused with humor, paints a bleak picture where blackouts, fuel shortages, and a lack of basic resources have turned holidays into yet another challenge in the island's harsh everyday life. Recently, NaunHung, known for his community work in rural areas of Santiago de Cuba, expressed his dismay upon learning that the Cuban regime is preparing for future blackouts lasting over 72 hours, as outlined in the recently enacted Decree 110.
"Enough! End this needless suffering, Lord! Come soon, at least for the Cubans! Come to take us away!" pleaded the Catholic priest, who shares the hardships and makeshift solutions with rural and underprivileged Cubans. His comments were published on CiberCuba's Facebook page, particularly in a note about the regime's decision to implement a "special electric contingency regime" whenever the national electro-energy system (SEN) is overwhelmed and on the verge of collapse.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the current energy situation in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a severe energy crisis, marked by frequent blackouts and shortages of basic resources, impacting daily life significantly.
How are Cubans coping with the energy crisis?
Many Cubans are resorting to creative solutions, such as using makeshift wood stoves, to cope with the lack of electricity and fuel.
What is Decree 110?
Decree 110 is a regulation by the Cuban government preparing for prolonged blackouts, potentially lasting over 72 hours, due to the strained national energy system.